DOX Centre for Contemporary Art occupies a converted factory in Prague’s Holešovice district. Its changing exhibitions bring Czech and international contemporary art into a space that also hosts cultural events and educational programmes. Look out for Gulliver, the wooden airship structure above the gallery, and works such as Petr Motyčka’s permanent installation “shoe christ.” The building can take time to get your bearings in, so pause at the entrance map before exploring. There is also a café for coffee, tea and a sandwich between exhibitions.
A former factory turned art centre
DOX is in Holešovice, an area of Prague shaped by its industrial past. The centre took over a former factory complex and opened in 2008. Its name comes from the Greek word doxa, associated with opinion, belief and ways of understanding. That idea fits the programme: exhibitions use contemporary art to open up questions about the world around us.
The centre is an independent institution devoted to contemporary art, with work from Czech and international artists. Its programme ranges across art and design, and can include photography, film, architecture, performance and sculpture. Exhibitions change, so the experience depends on what is on during your visit. If one particular show is the reason for going, check the programme ahead of time.
Exhibitions and public events
DOX is more than a gallery. The centre also holds talks, panel discussions, film screenings, workshops and performances. These events extend the themes raised in the exhibitions and give visitors other ways to engage with them. Educational programmes are also part of its work, including activities for primary and secondary school students.
The industrial buildings have been adapted into a complex of gallery spaces. The layout can feel hard to follow at first, and visitors have found the signs and maps limited. At the entrance, take a moment with the map to understand the arrangement around Tower A and Tower B. Staff can help with questions, and English-speaking assistance is available.
Gulliver and the centre’s other spaces
Gulliver is a large wooden airship structure set above the gallery roof. It was added in 2016 and is named for the central character in Gulliver’s Travels. The structure houses an exhibition about airship technology and also serves as a space for discussion. Access inside may be limited when an event is taking place, so check whether it is open if entering the airship is important to your visit.
There is a café, a terrace and a shop alongside the exhibition spaces. The café serves coffee and tea, with sandwiches among the food options; its food selection can be limited later in the afternoon. The shop carries design goods as well as books, ceramics, textiles and stationery. DOX also has accessible entrances, lifts and restrooms.
Häufige Fragen
How long should I spend at DOX Centre for Contemporary Art?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to explore the exhibitions and other spaces.
Where is DOX Centre for Contemporary Art?
It is at Poupětova 1 in Prague’s Holešovice district.
Is the Gulliver airship always open to enter?
No. Access inside can be restricted during events, so check ahead if you want to go in.
Is DOX wheelchair accessible?
The centre has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, elevator, restroom and parking.
